Childcare professionals now legally obliged to report concerns of child abuse

From today, childcare professionals are legally obliged to report concerns about child abuse.

Minister for Children Katherine Zappone has commenced the final stage of the Childrens First Act which includes mandatory reporting.

Minister Zappone says it is about making Ireland a safer place for our most vulnerable citizens.

She said: "People will be obliged, professionals will be obliged to report a concern of abuse about a child to Tusla as soon as possible.

"There is a certain group of professionals now who are going to be legally obliged to send in a report if they are concerned a child is being abused."